Water governance is increasingly becoming a pivotal issue as societies strive for sustainable development amidst growing environmental challenges. The intricate connections between sustainable resource management and governance frameworks are being explored through various lenses, with one particularly intriguing viewpoint offered by the Islamic moral economy. The recent study by Ghunmi, Avdukic, and Ghunmi delves into this perspective, shedding light on how Islamic principles can inform circular resource use, particularly focusing on the essential resource of water.
In the context of climate change and dwindling natural resources, water governance must evolve to address not only the economic aspects of water management but also its ethical implications. The authors argue that Islamic teachings provide robust guidelines that align with contemporary sustainability objectives. By adhering to such moral frameworks, communities can foster a more equitable and responsible approach to water governance that resonates with core ethical principles found in Islamic doctrine.
Circular resource use refers to a sustainability model that emphasizes the continual reuse and recycling of materials, extending their lifecycle and minimizing waste. This is particularly relevant in the case of water, where maximizing efficiency and reducing consumption are critical amid rising global demand. The Islamic moral economy advocates for responsible stewardship of resources, which fits seamlessly with the ideals of circular economy principles. This relationship prompts a reevaluation of conventional water governance strategies that often overlook ethical considerations in favor of purely economic ones.
One of the central concepts explored in this study is the notion of stewardship, or ‘Khilafah,’ which underscores the responsibility of individuals and communities to manage resources in a manner that preserves them for future generations. This principle inherently challenges unsustainable practices often observed in water governance, where immediate economic gains take precedence over long-term sustainability. By integrating this Islamic perspective into water governance frameworks, policymakers can cultivate a more inclusive approach that values both economic and environmental equity.
Moreover, the study emphasizes the significance of community participation and local knowledge in enhancing water governance. Islamic teachings advocate for consulting local communities and respecting their customs and practices in resource management. This aspect is crucial in sustaining local ecosystems and ensuring that resource use aligns with the unique environmental and cultural contexts of different regions. Engaging communities in governance not only fosters a sense of ownership but also enhances accountability and transparency, fundamental tenets of both Islamic governance and sustainable practices.
The research highlights the need for interdisciplinary collaboration among various stakeholders, including governments, local communities, and civil society organizations. Effective water governance requires a holistic approach that considers diverse viewpoints and knowledge systems. The application of Islamic moral economics in this context suggests that collaborative frameworks can lead to more ethical and sustainable resource management practices. By creating partnerships built on shared ethical values, water governance can transition towards a more equitable mode of operation.
Additionally, the authors present case studies where Islamic moral economy principles have been successfully integrated into water management practices. These examples illustrate how local initiatives grounded in community values have led to significant improvements in water conservation and management. Such success stories serve as crucial evidence that ethical and sustainable practices can coexist and thrive within the framework of traditional governance structures.
The authors caution against the pitfalls of dominant neoliberal economic models that prioritize profit over ecological and social considerations. By doing so, these approaches often exacerbate inequities and diminish resource availability for vulnerable populations. Hence, the study argues for a paradigm shift toward a moral economy that emphasizes justice, equity, and sustainability as foundational pillars of water governance. Addressing these systemic issues is essential to ensure that water resources can meet the needs of present and future generations.
Furthermore, Ghunmi and colleagues call for the incorporation of Islamic ethical principles into international water governance dialogues, advocating for a more integrative approach that transcends cultural and religious boundaries. Engaging with diverse ethical perspectives can enrich the discourse on water governance, enabling the development of solutions that resonate with multiple stakeholders. This cross-cultural dialogue can pave the way for innovative strategies that enhance global water security.
The complexities of global water governance necessitate an adaptive and responsive approach to policy development. By integrating principles from the Islamic moral economy, authorities can develop governance frameworks that are not only effective but also resonate with ethical imperatives. This framework can strengthen policy coherence while addressing the socio-economic disparities that often accompany water scarcity issues.
As the world grapples with increasing water-related crises, the insights provided by Ghunmi et al. offer an invaluable perspective on the intersection of religion, ethics, and governance. Their research challenges conventional narratives surrounding resource management by emphasizing the role of moral considerations in fostering sustainable practices. This moral approach serves as a powerful reminder that long-term sustainability cannot be achieved through technical solutions alone but requires a commitment to ethical governance principles.
Looking ahead, the implications of integrating Islamic moral economy principles into water governance extend beyond regional contexts and into global discussions on climate change, equity, and sustainability. The study serves as a clarion call for policymakers to recognize the importance of ethical frameworks in crafting interventions that can safeguard water resources while promoting social justice. Ultimately, the transition towards sustainable water governance necessitates a profound shift in perspective, one that embraces moral responsibilities alongside economic imperatives.
As the conversation around water governance evolves, the work of Ghunmi and his co-authors enriches the dialogue, providing both theoretical insights and practical recommendations. Future research should continue to explore diverse ethical frameworks and their implications for resource governance, particularly in contexts facing acute environmental challenges. The integration of varied perspectives can only enhance our understanding and approach to the global water crisis, fostering a future in which equity, sustainability, and ethical stewardship are at the forefront of resource management.
In conclusion, Ghunmi, Avdukic, and Ghunmi’s study not only highlights the value of Islamic moral economy in shaping effective water governance but also invites a broader consideration of ethical frameworks in sustainability discourses. Their insights encourage a shift towards inclusive, equitable resource management practices, underscoring the importance of viewing water as a shared resource that reflects our interconnected moral responsibilities. As societies strive for sustainable futures, embracing such perspectives will be crucial for effective governance and resource stewardship.
Subject of Research: Water governance and sustainability from an Islamic moral economy perspective.
Article Title: Water governance and sustainability: an Islamic moral economy perspective on circular resource use.
Article References:
Ghunmi, L.A., Avdukic, A., Ghunmi, D.A. et al. Water governance and sustainability: an Islamic moral economy perspective on circular resource use.
Discov Sustain 6, 1126 (2025). https://doi.org/10.1007/s43621-025-01961-9
Image Credits: AI Generated
DOI:
Keywords: water governance, sustainability, Islamic moral economy, circular resource use, ethical stewardship.
